March 8, 2010

Do you know what today is? I had never heard of this holiday until eight years ago when I was a Corporate Sales Manager at FedEx visiting my flower customers in Ecuador. They shared with me that they ship just as many flowers to Russia and Europe for this day as they do for flowers to the US for Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day. Give up? March 8th, all around the world, represents International Women’s Day. Although it was not made official in the United States until 1909 (also on a different date) It has a long and rich history that every woman should be familiar. Below are some facts that might be of interest to you.

“International Women's Day is the story of ordinary women as makers of history; it is rooted in the centuries-old struggle of women to participate in society on an equal footing with men. In ancient Greece, Lysistrata initiated a sexual strike against men in order to end war; during the French Revolution, Parisian women calling for "liberty, equality, fraternity" marched on Versailles to demand women's suffrage.”

“Few causes promoted by the United Nations have generated more intense and widespread support than the campaign to promote and protect the equal rights of women.”

“Annually on 8 March, thousands of events are held throughout the world to inspire women and celebrate achievements. A global web of rich and diverse local activity connects women from all around the world ranging from political rallies, business conferences, government activities and networking events through to local women's craft markets, theatric performances, fashion parades and more.”

Various International Women’s Day (IWD) themes around the world. Below are some from the UN in previous years:

(2010 - Equal Rghts, Equal Opportunities: Progress for All)
2009 - Women and Men United to End Violence Against Women and Girls
2008 - Investing in Women and Girls
2007 - Ending Impunity for Violence against Women and Girls
2006 - Women in Decision-Making

Now that you know about this day, how will you honor and celebrate it?

Resources:

UN Website
International Women’s Day Website

March 1, 2010

Would you know exactly what to say if someone asked you what you do for a living or if they inquired why they should hire you? According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are six unemployed workers for every open position. So many times you only have about two minutes to impress and establish your value! When I started my business I knew what it entailed, but getting it across concisely wasn’t always easy. The perfect “elevator pitch” (coined that because you don’t decide when you will say it or have a lot of time to say it) needs to be structured, concise, and well rehearsed. The tips below from Money Magazine and Harvard Business Publishing helped me create mine.

Make an impact: Leave them wanting more and asking additional questions. Make the first words out of your mouth powerful. I tell people that “I empower women.” This leaves them asking “how” and “why”. A statement is not as impactful if it is wordy and long. Keep it short and simple. It is about you, so it is OK to brag and use “I”.

It’s all about confidence: Slowly, deliberately, and in two to three sentences describe what you do or discuss your successes. Continuing with my example I then tell people that I help women create their own businesses, develop their own ideas, or help them move up their personal corporate ladder. Again, many times they want to know more. If time permits, I then give details to the programs I offer and the skills I possess. If it’s an example where you’re discussing a story, be sure to pick one that will relate to the person inquiring. Eye contact is important. If you’re going to come across as credible and confident, do so while making eye contact and delivering your words.

PRACTICE: See every opportunity as an elevator speech. Just because it’s your friend’s husband asking doesn’t make it any less important. You never know, he might be able to connect you to a great lead or someone who will hire you.

February 20, 2010

You read about it all the time: someone was fired for what they said on Facebook or what they “tweeted” on Twitter? How smart are you when it comes to social media? I’ll be the first to say I am still learning! But here are some “Do’s and Don’ts” to help guide you along the way.

DO:

Limit the number of outlets you participate: I’ve chosen to participate only with three media outlets: Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. Each have their own specific purpose. LinkedIn is a professional outlet that allows individuals to network with other professionals. It is a great venue to publish your work history, education, and projects. It is also a great way to build up your credibility as a subject matter expert by participating in their Q & A section. I’ve actually made additional contacts because other professionals were impressed with how I answered their questions. I’ve also used LinkedIn to prospect for clients and vendors. Although I recommend doing this, it should be noted that one should not abuse this. If you do not know the individual you want to meet, request an introduction from your contact who does know the professional. Many people still don’t get Twitter. As soon as it became available, I got it! What better way to concisely communicate (140 characters only please) to those interested in your projects or events (professional or personal). Twitter also allows like minded people to communicate or feel closer to those they admire. Apollo Ohno answered one of my questions. Now how damn cool is that! Facebook allows you to share with friends and professionals what is going on in your life. It’s a great way to share photos and special moments. Because I’ve moved around a lot, this tool has allowed me to stay in touch with friends all over the world and not have to wait until I seem them during the summer or send a Christmas card! Although these sites allow us to stay in touch, are they really allowing us to be more “social”? Nothing will ever compare with face to face interaction when it comes to building lasting relationships.

Be creative: Being creative will entice more people to read about you and what you’re doing, which is what you should want in the first place. My Twitter name is ThomasinaTheCat. Don’t read too much into it. I picked the name because of an old Walt Disney movie with this title. Instead of being Thomasina#2748, ThomasinaTheCat sounded a little more intriguing. Sometimes it gains attention I don’t want. I simply block those people. :) When it comes to writing a status update in Facebook, I try to not only convey a current thought or idea, but I also try to use one of the 4 E’s of art: enlighten, educate, escape, or entertain. Which comment sounds more interesting- “Tomorrow is Lent” or “Enjoy your Fat Tuesday...tomorrow is Lent! And I'm not talking about the stuff from the dryer :).” Spice it up a bit. An example of educating or enlightening my friends and fans is when I give updates to guests on my radio show or upcoming publications.

Have fun: This ties into being creative. Part of the reason you are participating on these sites is to have fun! Don’t be too afraid to say something about yourself. We do want to know you better. (Well, not everything...keep the mundane things to yourself. But I do want to hear about the joys in your life.)

DON’T:

Don’t be TOO Personal: If you’re going to describe your adventures leaving town, that’s fine, but remember your audience. Do you really want people to know your home will be vacant for two weeks while you’re traveling? There have been reports of people coming home to empty houses because they indicated they would gone for a long period of time with no one to house sit. Just keep this in mind as you write.

Think before you “tweet”: Even it the only people you allow on your sites are close friends and colleagues, it doesn’t mean others cannot access your information. And to prove it, Google yourself. If you’re on Twitter, most likely one of your “tweets” might be published. I once wrote what I thought was a cute comment about going out with my girlfriends the night before. I innocently wrote that mojitos and cosmopolitans do not mix. The next day my PR person called me in a panic questioning my statement. I couldn’t understand how she knew about it since she wasn’t on Twitter. She explained that she was “Googling” me to determine if any of my interviews had been printed. She brought up a good point, that if she can find those comments, so could potential clients. And they don’t need to assume what I meant by my statement (for the record- I really was a good girl that night).

Remember it’s FOREVER: Friends come and go, and opinions change. So remember what ever you put in writing, especially on the internet, will last forever! Be nice to people and be open minded when it comes to your opinions. One day you might interview for a job and the hiring person may feel very different about your opinions. (Yes, potential employers are researching you on the internet.)

As with any technology, there are wonderful benefits and pitfalls. YOU can decide how to manage it and determine how it impacts your life.